When Tyler and Sarah planned their road trip down the Oregon Coast, Tyler knew he wanted to propose at an iconic location. I was so thrilled when he reached out to me – surprise proposals are one of my favorite things to shoot. Oregon Coast proposals are especially romantic, with giant rock formations, crashing waves, and rolling grassy hills to play with as a backdrop. Ultimately, we decided on iconic Cannon Beach for their engagement photos.
For proposals, I always come prepared to look like a casual hiker. I also spend as much time as I need coordinating with the proposing partner to make sure we have the perfect time and location settled. When the proposal begins, I have my zoom lens handy, staying far back enough that you have your privacy, while still capturing the moment up close. If you’re thinking of proposing at the coast and you’d like to put together a shoot, let’s deeeefinitely talk.
Once you’ve soaked the moment in (proposals can be really emotional!), I introduce myself, and we’ll take a few photos to send back to family. I try to edit a few sneak peeks as quickly as possible – I know how exciting it is to share them to social media ASAP!
Why I love meeting couples at the Oregon Coast
Oregon Coast engagement photos can be playful, moody, and romantic, which makes them perfect for literally anyone who likes to be outside. Depending on your “vibe,” I can recommend rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling, soft grassy hills.
Limitless variety
One of the biggest perks of choosing to do your engagement photos on the Oregon Coast is the sheer variety. You can have beach photos with the ocean stretching out behind you, forest shots with towering pines and ferns, or even incorporate some charming coastal towns into the background. For those who enjoy more adventurous photos, consider hiking up to viewpoints like Cape Kiwanda or Hug Point to add some elevation and stunning views.
Low tides can reveal interesting features like tide pools or sandy stretches that make for playful, intimate shots. Meanwhile, sunsets on the Oregon Coast can be breathtaking. As the sun dips into the Pacific, the skies explode with color, casting a golden glow on the beach. This light creates an ethereal, romantic atmosphere—perfect for capturing those intimate moments with your partner.
I have a list of all of my favorite Oregon Coast engagement photo spots – each one tailored to your personality and Pinterest board.
What to wear for your Oregon Coast engagement photos
When it comes to clothing, the key is to blend in with the coastal environment while still standing out as the focal point. Here are some tips to help you plan your outfits:
- Colors and Textures: Soft, neutral tones work best. Think of earthy tones like beige, cream, sage green, and soft blues. These colors echo the beach, cliffs, and forested areas. You could also add a pop of color—mustard yellow, deep maroon, or burnt orange can add warmth and contrast while still harmonizing with the surroundings.Layers with different textures, such as knits, linen, or denim, can add depth to your photos. Think cozy sweaters, flowy dresses, or even a wool coat if you’re shooting during the colder months.
- Comfort is Key: You’ll likely be walking over uneven terrain—beaches, rocks, and forest trails—so choose footwear that’s practical and comfortable. Barefoot shots can feel more intimate and grounded, while ankle boots or sturdy sandals provide support without detracting from the photos.
- Dress for the Weather: The coast is known for unpredictable weather, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Layers are a great way to prepare for changing conditions. Bring a jacket or wrap that fits the aesthetic of your outfit, and don’t forget a warm, stylish layer in case it gets chilly.
- Flowy Fabrics: The ocean breeze is perfect for creating movement in your photos, so take advantage of it. Just make sure that whatever you wear is still practical enough for walking along the beach or climbing rocks if that’s part of your plan.
Taking engagement photos at the Oregon Coast
One of the biggest perks of choosing to do your engagement photos on the Oregon Coast is the sheer variety. You can have beach photos with the ocean stretching out behind you, forest shots with towering pines and ferns, or even incorporate some charming coastal towns into the background. For those who enjoy more adventurous photos, consider hiking up to viewpoints like Cape Kiwanda or Elk Flats to add some elevation and stunning views.
Cannon Beach engagement photos, like these, are also some of my favorites because of easy accessibility to both the coastline as well as the forest setting at Ecola State Park.
Low tides can reveal interesting features like tide pools or sandy stretches that make for playful, intimate shots. Meanwhile, sunsets on the Oregon Coast can be breathtaking. As the sun dips into the Pacific, the skies explode with color, casting a golden glow on the beach. This light creates an ethereal, romantic atmosphere—perfect for capturing those intimate moments with your partner.
I have a list of all of my favorite Oregon Coast engagement photo spots – each one tailored to your personality and Pinterest board.
You ready to do schedule your proposal, engagement or elopement photos? Let’s talk!
